Yahya Menteng Sanyang, the elected representative of the Latrikunda Sabiji constituency in the National Assembly, has called upon his colleagues legislators to deliberate on the possibility of initiating impeachment proceedings against President Adama Barrow.

I am writing to provide a reminder of the impeachment responsibilities that we, as representatives of the people, have. As well recognized, the Constitution stipulates that the impeachment of the president is permissible in cases of severe wrongdoing or an inability to fulfill the duties associated with the presidential office. Dear esteemed colleagues, It is widely acknowledged that severe misconduct include transgressions against the Constitution or the law, with other forms of grave misbehavior that damage the president’s capacity to effectively carry out his responsibilities. The inability to fulfill the responsibilities associated with the presidential office may include several factors, such as physical or mental disease, along with other circumstances that hinder the president’s ability to efficiently execute their duties. As citizens of the nation, it is essential for us to reflect upon the effectiveness with which the president is fulfilling his responsibilities.”

The member of parliament for the Latrikunda constituency asserts that the president’s violation of the Constitution is a valid basis for initiating impeachment proceedings.

The Constitution holds the highest legal authority inside a nation, and it is incumbent upon the president to ensure its preservation and adherence. When the executive branch of government engages in actions that contravene the provisions outlined in the Constitution, it poses a threat to the principles of the rule of law and the fundamental underpinnings of our democratic system. Esteemed colleagues of the National Assembly. It is well acknowledged that there is a growing movement for impeachment. The responsibility now lies with us to assess whether the recent actions and statements made by the president constitute a breach of the Constitution.

The speaker underscored the significance of impeachment as the supreme mechanism for restraining the president’s authority and as an indispensable instrument for safeguarding the nation’s democratic system. Consequently, it is imperative to ensure presidential accountability in instances when constitutional violations occur.

I implore you to thoroughly deliberate over the grounds for impeachment. Dear esteemed colleagues of the National Assembly, in the event that you encounter the arduous task of deliberating upon the potential impeachment of the president. It is important to note that the process of impeachment should not be seen through a political lens. The primary objective is to safeguarding the Constitution and ensuring the well-being of the populace of The Gambia. The absence of democracy would preclude our ability to function as a National Assembly. The speaker finished by emphasizing that our first duty is to safeguard democracy regardless of the expenses involved.